Understanding the effects of using fentanyl and methamphetamine together
Official title: Characterization of Polysubstance Use: Combined Fentanyl and Methamphetamine
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-11010815 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using fentanyl and methamphetamine together affects behavior and brain chemistry, and it's designed to help us understand the risks of this dangerous drug combination for people who might be using them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DA057815-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010815 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are currently using or have a history of using fentanyl and methamphetamine together.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use either fentanyl or methamphetamine, or who are not involved in polysubstance use, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the combined use of fentanyl and methamphetamine, focusing on how this polysubstance use affects behavior and the brain's dopamine system. By examining both male and female rats, the study aims to uncover the neurobiological changes and behavioral responses associated with using these substances together compared to using fentanyl alone. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques such as self-administration, microdialysis, and a novel photosensor to gather data on dopamine release and behavioral patterns. The goal is to better understand the risks and effects of this dangerous combination of drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with polysubstance use involving fentanyl and methamphetamine.
How similar studies have gone: While research on individual substances is extensive, the specific combination of fentanyl and methamphetamine is less studied, making this approach relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dawes, Monica H — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Dawes, Monica H
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.